14/09/2026
Distress does not always sound like distress. 💛
As we continue through Su***de Prevention Awareness Month, following World Su***de Prevention Day on 10 September, we want to remind the people we support, and every family and carer around them, that your wellbeing matters.
For autistic adults and adults with profound learning disabilities, distress may not always be expressed through words. Changes in behaviour, mood, routine, communication, sleep, appetite or presentation may be how someone tells us that something is not right.
This month, and every month, our team remains focused on:
💛 Recognising changes in mood, behaviour and presentation
🗣️ Listening to and understanding each person in their own way
🧩 Remembering that behaviour is communication
🤝 Building meaningful relationships and connections
💚 Helping people feel safe, valued and understood
Families and carers are an essential part of this work. You know your loved one better than anyone, and your observations help us recognise changes, understand what someone may be communicating and provide the right support at the right time.
We also want to recognise you.
Caring for someone can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. You may sometimes feel exhausted, overwhelmed, worried or isolated. Your mental health matters too, and you do not need to wait until you reach crisis point before asking for help.
Please give yourself permission to acknowledge how you feel and reach out when you need support. Asking for help does not mean you are failing. Caring is an enormous responsibility, and you deserve care and support too.
Swipe through our carousel for important information about recognising distress, asking direct questions and finding support.
If you need urgent help:
Samaritans: 116 123
Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258
NHS 111: Select the mental health option
Northamptonshire Mental Health Number: 0800 448 0828
If someone’s life is at immediate risk, call 999.
To the people we support, and the families and carers around them, you matter, your wellbeing matters and you are not alone. ❤️
Oakwoods Care Group
***dePreventionMonth
